1971 Lincoln Continental vs. 2012 Mazda 3
To start off, 2012 Mazda 3 is newer by 41 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1971 Lincoln Continental. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1971 Lincoln Continental would be higher. At 7,542 cc (8 cylinders), 1971 Lincoln Continental is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1971 Lincoln Continental (217 HP @ 4400 RPM) has 69 more horse power than 2012 Mazda 3. (148 HP @ 3500 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1971 Lincoln Continental should accelerate faster than 2012 Mazda 3.
Because 1971 Lincoln Continental is rear wheel drive (RWD), it offers better handling in dry conditions; in addition, if you are looking to drift, it will be much easier to do with 1971 Lincoln Continental. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2012 Mazda 3, being front wheel drive (FWD), will offer much better control with better grip. With that said, do keep in mind that many other factors such as speed and the wear on your tires can also have significant impact on traction and control. Let's talk about torque, 1971 Lincoln Continental (488 Nm @ 2800 RPM) has 128 more torque (in Nm) than 2012 Mazda 3. (360 Nm @ 1800 RPM). This means 1971 Lincoln Continental will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2012 Mazda 3. 1971 Lincoln Continental has automatic transmission and 2012 Mazda 3 has manual transmission. 2012 Mazda 3 will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 1971 Lincoln Continental will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 1971 Lincoln Continental | 2012 Mazda 3 | |
| Make | Lincoln | Mazda |
| Model | Continental | 3 |
| Year Released | 1971 | 2012 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 7542 cc | 2184 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 8 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | V | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 2 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 217 HP | 148 HP |
| Engine RPM | 4400 RPM | 3500 RPM |
| Torque | 488 Nm | 360 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 2800 RPM | 1800 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Diesel |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Automatic | 5-speed manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Vehicle Length | 5720 mm | 4590 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 2020 mm | 1755 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1420 mm | 1471 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 3230 mm | 2639 mm |
